The Democratic Alliance on Tuesday urged SABC chair Zandile Tshabalala not to resign and rather face a parliamentary inquiry into whether she lied about her qualifications.

Reacting to media reports that Tshabalala would be asked to jump ship following a push for her resignation during an ANC NEC meeting held at the weekend, DA MP Gavin Davis said this would result in a scheduled parliamentary inquiry being scrapped.

“This will rob us of an opportunity to ascertain once and for all whether she lied to parliament when she claimed to have a BCom and diploma from Unisa,” Davis said.

“Ms Tshabalala has consistently denied lying about her qualifications. The parliamentary inquiry is an ideal opportunity for her to prove her innocence.”

The inquiry was meant to start on Thursday, but was postponed to 14 October to give her an opportunity to prepare for the hearing.

“If Ms Tshabalala does decide to jump before she is pushed, she should be aware that the case against her will not go away,” Davis said.

“Lying to parliament may amount to perjury, which is a criminal offence.”

Last week, the portfolio committee on communications recommended she be suspended pending the outcome of the hearing.

Only President Jacob Zuma, who is the appointing authority, can suspend her from her duties. — Sapa